Synthesis, Characterisation and DNA binding studies of [Ru(dmbpy)(tpphz)] for Potential Anti-Cancer Applications

Synthesis, Characterisation and DNA binding studies of [Ru(dmbpy)(tpphz)] for Potential Anti-Cancer Applications

Chemistry

Ruby Lucia Millinsip

2025

Ruthenium(II) polypyridyl complexes are promising alternatives to platinum-based anticancer drugs due to their tunable photophysical properties and reversible DNA interactions. This study reports the synthesis, characterisation, and DNA-binding analysis of [Ru(dmbpy)₂(tpphz)]²⁺. The complex was successfully prepared and confirmed using 1H NMR, IR, UV-Vis, and mass spectrometry. UV-Vis spectra revealed characteristic MLCT bands near 450 nm, while DNA titrations showed hypochromism and red shifts, indicating intercalation. Luminescence studies demonstrated a ‘light-switch’ effect upon DNA addition, consistent with increased emission in the bound state. The binding constant (K_b ≈ 3.9 × 10⁵ M⁻¹) and low quantum yield (Φ ≈ 2%) suggest moderate affinity but promising photoactive potential. Overall, [Ru(dmbpy)₂(tpphz)]²⁺ exhibits characteristics desirable for further investigation as a potential photoactivated anticancer agent.

Chemistry, DNA, synthesis, Characterisation, therapeutics.